When it comes to deployments, having the right gear is crucial for maintaining comfort, efficiency, and morale. Whether you’re preparing for your first deployment or are a seasoned service member, packing wisely can make a significant difference. This guide will outline the best things to bring on deployments and provide a detailed deployment packing list to ensure you’re organized, comfortable, and mission-ready.
Most of the items listed here are versatile and suitable for a variety of weather conditions and locations. However, it’s important to check with your Unit Deployment Manager (UDM) for specific packing requirements and checklists tailored to your deployment environment.
Electronics and Tech
Electronics and tech gear are essential for enhancing your deployment experience, ensuring you stay connected, entertained, and prepared for any situation. From reliable portable chargers that keep your devices powered during inconsistent electricity supply to noise-canceling earbuds that provide a peaceful escape from the chaos, having the right tech can make all the difference. Explore the options below to equip yourself with the ultimate tech toolkit for your deployment!
To explore the other articles in the series, click here.
Portable Charger
Stay powered up wherever you go with reliable power banks. For deployment locations where electricity may be inconsistent, we highly recommend a solar power bank. Check out these two great options below!
- Budget-Friendly: Anker Zolo 10,000mAh Portable Charger – Compact, lightweight, and affordable for daily use.
- Premium: GOODaaa 36,000mAh Power Bank – High-capacity, Solar & fast-charging for multiple devices.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection of power banks on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs! Browse Power Banks on Amazon
Noise-Canceling Earbuds
Looking for new headphones for your deployment? Check out two of our top picks below! Whether you want to block out distractions or enjoy some quiet time with your favorite entertainment, these options have you covered.
- Budget-Friendly: TOZO NC9 Hybrid Earbuds – Affordable noise-canceling earbuds with great sound quality.
- Premium iPhone: Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds – Industry-leading noise cancellation and premium audio.
- Premium Android: Beats Studio Buds – Compatible with Android, sweat-resistant, and designed for premium audio quality.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection of Noise cancelling earbuds on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs! Browse Earbuds on Amazon
Tablet
Convenient for reading, watching movies, and reducing book bulk.
- Budget-Friendly: Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablet – Budget-friendly for streaming and light reading.
- Premium: Apple iPad (10th Gen) with a 10.9-inch Retina Display and 256GB of storage – sleek, powerful, and perfect for all your needs.
- Premium: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE with a vibrant 10.9-inch display – powerful, stylish, and designed to enhance your productivity and entertainment.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection of tablets on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs! Browse Tablets on Amazon
e-Reader
Convenient for reading, watching movies, and reducing book bulk.
- Budget-Friendly: Amazon Kindle (16 GB) – Lightest and most compact Kindle.
- Premium: Kindle Paperwhite – Waterproof, glare-free, and perfect for avid readers.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection of e-Readers on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs! Browse e-Readers on Amazon
Why Every Deployed Service Member Needs a VPN
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential in a deployment environment for securing communication and protecting sensitive data. It encrypts your internet connection, safeguarding against interception on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, a VPN allows access to U.S. content, enabling you to bypass regional restrictions and enjoy familiar services while deployed. This enhances your cybersecurity and privacy in uncertain environments.
Visit our blog to discover more and find the right VPN for your needs.
The Ultimate Guide For The Best VPN For Service Members Overseas
Service members overseas face unique challenges when it comes to...
Read More
Hard Drive (Movies & Music)
Load up on movies, shows, and music to become everyone’s favorite swap partner. Sure, you might have internet at your deployment location, but will streaming always be an option? It’s better to be prepared with your own entertainment ready to go! However, keep in mind that depending on the country, your hard drive might be inspected, so ensure it doesn’t contain anything questionable or prohibited.
- Budget-Friendly: Seagate Portable 1TB External HDD – Affordable and spacious for media storage.
- Premium: Samsung T7 1TB Portable SSD – Fast, durable, and reliable for long-term use.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs!
Outlet Extender with Surge Protector
Essential for safely powering multiple devices, a surge protector is a must-have. We recommend having at least two, depending on your living situation, to ensure you’re always covered.
- Budget-Friendly: GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector – Affordable and compact for travel use.
- Premium: Anker Power Strip with USB – Surge protector featuring 2 USB-A ports and 1 USB-C port for ultimate versatility and convenience.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs!
Battery Packs & Solar Chargers
Power isn’t always reliable depending on your deployment location—be prepared with backup solutions for your devices. Be sure to check your reporting instructions to confirm these items are authorized.
- Budget-Friendly: A ADDTOP Solar Charger Power Bank 25000mAh – Compact solar charger for basic needs.
- Premium: Goal Zero Nomad 10 Solar Panel – Foldable, efficient, and ideal for outdoor charging.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs!
Dual Voltage Appliances & Adapters
Know your power situation (110V vs. 220V) and pack the right tools to stay connected. A universal travel adapter is a must-have, whether you’re traveling or deployed. Many countries use different plug types than those in the US, so be prepared to adapt! **Also, make sure to check that your devices are compatible with 220V to avoid any issues.**
- Budget-Friendly: Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit – Affordable and works in multiple regions.
- Premium: BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter – Includes USB ports and surge protection.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs!
Extra Charging Cables
Charging cables wear out quickly—always carry a couple of spares.
- Budget-Friendly: Anker USB C to USB C – Reliable and affordable spares.
- Premium: Apple MFi Certified USB-C to Lightning Cable – Durable and high-quality for Apple devices.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs!
Laptop & Gaming Gear
A lightweight laptop or gaming system helps pass the downtime. However, depending on your deployment location, your brand-new laptop might be exposed to sand or rough conditions that could cause damage. Please use good judgment when deciding to take an expensive laptop with you.
- Budget-Friendly: Acer Aspire 5 Laptop – Affordable and suitable for everyday use.
- Premium: Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop – Powerful and portable for serious gaming.
- Premium: Apple Macbook Pro or Macbook Air – Sleek, powerful, and perfect for productivity and creativity on the go.
Looking for more options? Explore a wide selection on Amazon to find the perfect one for your needs!
Pro Tips for Packing:
- Check with Your Unit: Some gear may already be provided.
- Check Reporting Instructions: Consult your reporting instructions or sponsor to get their address and start sending items before you deploy. This way, you won’t have to pack too much.
- Pack Light, Pack Smart: Multi-functional items save space.
- Label Your Gear: Avoid mix-ups in shared areas.
- Prepare for the Climate: Pack according to weather conditions.
Your Deployment Journey Starts Here
This electronics and tech guide is just one part of your comprehensive deployment preparation. There’s a lot more to discover! From must-have tactical gear to specialized equipment for various environments, our Deployment Packing List Series is designed to provide insights that will enhance your mission experience.
Each post is tailored to help you build a personalized packing strategy, ensuring you’re equipped for every challenge. Don’t stop here—dive into the full series to uncover the tools and tips that will keep you connected and comfortable throughout your deployment.
Check out the rest of the series here and start packing like a pro!
Contact Us
If you wish to reach out to us, whether it’s to submit a new tool or simply to say hello, kindly utilize the form provided below.
